Dr. Nika Danial

Associate Professor

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Biography

Nika Danial is an Associate Professor of Cancer Biology at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and an affiliate member of the Department of Cell Biology at Harvard Medical School. She received her undergraduate degree in Biological Sciences from Stanford University and her Ph.D. in Molecular, Cellular, and Biophysical Studies from Columbia University. Following her doctoral studies, she completed postdoctoral research in the lab of Stanley J. Korsmeyer at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, focusing on the role of BCL-2 family proteins in mitochondrial apoptosis. Her research group, the Danial Lab, investigates the molecular mechanisms and biological consequences of cellular fuel choices and how these choices influence cell states that satisfy distinct anabolic and catabolic needs. The lab explores how cells' fuel preferences affect transitions in quiescence, resistance, and sensitivity to oxidative stress, as well as their metabolic adaptations and epigenetic regulation. The lab employs multidisciplinary approaches, including in vitro and in vivo studies, to understand the links between fuel utilization pathways and cellular stress outcomes in diseases such as cancer and diabetes.

Research Interests

Requirements for Harvard Medical School

Doctorate Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3
TOEFL
Total
Required:100
IELTS
Overall
Required:7
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree Undergraduate preparation in the sciences Biology Chemistry Physics
Application Checklist
  • Online application form
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Personal Statement
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Transcripts
  • CV/Resume
  • Application fee ($105)
Specialization Notes

Administered by the Division of Medical Sciences (DMS). GRE is not required and will not be considered for BBS, Immunology, and Neuroscience.